Microphones, Preamps and Impedance--Oh MY!

Want to get technical? Why are there so many variations of sound between mics and different preamps? There's lots of reasons. Many of which we have mentioned on these pages.

But I've noticed that in talking with the master technicians, they may add a little "footnote" to discussions about matching mics and preamps--impedance matching. They mention it as an aside and almost under their breath at the very end of the talks.

I may have referred you to other papers and sources about this subject in the past, but in case you missed this one, I submit it again. It's from the Microphone-Data website in an article by Rob Jones. Check out the PDF Here.

Keep in mind that Mr. Jones worked for Focusrite and demonstrates with a preamp with adjustable impedance--one of his.

How do I feel about it? He sums it up pretty well in his last paragraph:

Most microphones can be used very satisfactorily with most preamplifiers and true “matching” is actually undesirable. However if you are seeking a particular quality, tone, colouration, character – the terms are not fixed – then picking the right combination of equipment can be very helpful.

CharterOak S700 for Voiceover?

How did we miss this one?

(and who is that dude?)

The CharterOak Acoustic Devices S700 is a front address, cardioid, solid-state condenser microphone. The microphone is delivered in a fight case, with its shock mount and is extremely well suited for broadcast applications.

The CharterOak S 700 uses the side terminated 1.00" gold sputtered Mylar S-3 type capsule, pure class-A head amplifier and a custom made output transformer. Its rich and particularly non-sibilant eq, and cardioid pick up pattern make it a perfect choice for broadcast applications. The result is clean and rich sound on the voice without harshness or sibilance. The microphone is an excellent alternative to standard dynamic broadcast microphones, as it has a more detailed sound and higher output level.

Based on CharterOak’s unique S600, the S700 employs CharterOak’s series 700 type head amplifier with the S-3 type capsule used in the S600. The S700 was designed to meet the needs of broadcasters specifically, with its robust midrange, smooth and detailed top end and internal plosive filter.

“We’re responding to broadcasters who love the sound of the CharterOak E700, but find the E700, to be a bit too bulky, and would really prefer a front address microphone” says CharterOak VP Marketing.

I really would like to hear the S700 in action.